Heart

High cholesterol

Cholesterol is not simply “good” or “bad.” It’s a family of particles that carry fats through your bloodstream, and specific subtypes drive cardiovascular risk far more than the total number on your lab report.

Book a cardiology consultation Call (305) 249-5666

The numbers, in plain language

LDL

Low-density lipoprotein. It delivers cholesterol to artery walls, where it can build up into plaque. LDL is the primary target for heart-disease prevention.

HDL

High-density lipoprotein. It helps remove cholesterol. HDL is protective, but raising it artificially has not been proven to lower risk.

ApoB

A count of the particles that can cause plaque. It can reveal hidden risk when LDL looks “normal.”

Lp(a)

An inherited particle that raises heart-attack risk independently of LDL. It is largely genetic and should be measured at least once in a lifetime.

Why it matters

High cholesterol causes no symptoms. The harm is plaque building quietly in the arteries of the heart, the neck, and the legs — the process behind coronary artery disease and peripheral artery disease.

Targets are individualized. Someone with a prior heart attack needs an LDL far lower than a healthy 30-year-old with no risk factors.

How we check it

A basic panel reports total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides. Where it helps, we add advanced lipid, inflammatory, and metabolic labs, including ApoB and Lp(a).

If your risk is still unclear from labs and history alone, a coronary calcium score can help personalize it.

What to do about high numbers

Lifestyle — dietary pattern, weight, exercise, sleep — moves cholesterol meaningfully but rarely enough on its own for high-risk patients. Statins remain the most evidence-backed medications; newer options provide additional levers when needed.

The right treatment intensity depends on your overall cardiovascular risk, not any single number. That is decided with you at the consultation.

Medicare and most insurance plans accepted — we confirm your coverage before the visit. See the plans we accept.

Questions about cholesterol

When should I see a cardiologist about cholesterol?

Consider a cardiology visit if your LDL is above 160 mg/dL, if you have a family history of early heart attack, if you have diabetes or metabolic syndrome, or if you have never had your Lp(a) measured.

Should I bring my lab results?

Yes. Bring your most recent lab report and a list of your medications and doses. Trends over time are more useful than a single reading.

Where can I read more?

See Understanding Your Cholesterol Numbers and A Cardiologist’s Guide to a Heart-Healthy Diet in our Learning Center.

Find out what your cholesterol numbers mean for you.

Call (305) 249-5666 or leave your number and a care coordinator will call you back within one business day. We verify your insurance before your visit. Most new patients are seen within 5–7 business days.

Book a cardiology consultation